New revelations have deepened public concern and outrage over the death of popular X influencer Albert Omondi Ojwang, who died shortly after being arrested by police.

The 33-year-old was taken into custody on 8th June in Migori over claims of publishing false information on his social media accounts and was later transferred to Nairobi's Central Police Station.

A leaked audio recording of a phone call between Ojwang and a close friend has since gone viral, offering a haunting glimpse into the influencer’s final hours.

In the call, Ojwang sounded clearly distressed and confused. “Sielewi man, hata hawajanieleza man,” he said, noting he was en route to Central Police Station but had not been told why he was being arrested.

The friend on the other end tried to comfort him and promised to visit the following day. That visit never happened—Ojwang died in police custody hours later.

During the call, he voiced his fear: “Umewai kuwa ndani? How is it? I have never experienced this. Like will I be safe in there?” His words now echo in the hearts of many who are demanding answers.

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Listen to the heartbreaking audio below:

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Police Account and Ongoing Investigations

In an official statement, the National Police Service confirmed Ojwang’s arrest and detention at the Nairobi Central Police Station. However, the authorities disputed claims that he died while in custody.

Instead, they alleged that he had injured himself by hitting his head against the cell wall, and was rushed to Mbagathi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Reactions from Leaders and Public Figures

Gladys Wanga, Governor of Homa Bay, termed Ojwang’s death a “distressing and painful tragedy,” and called for an immediate, transparent investigation. “No family should have to bury a loved one under such unclear and painful circumstances,” she said.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga strongly condemned the incident, calling it a reflection of ongoing “state-sponsored violence against young Kenyans.” He dismissed the police explanation as “wanting,” and linked Ojwang’s death to a worrying trend of suppressing digital expression, noting the recent arrest of another young man, Kelvin Moinde, for online posts.

Jeremiah Kioni, Jubilee Party Secretary-General, expressed disbelief after visiting the police station and witnessing Ojwang’s grieving father, Meshack Opiyo. “This was murder,” he declared, accusing the police of covering up the truth and calling on those responsible to be held accountable.

Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, questioned the narrative of suicide, especially given that efforts to raise bail for Ojwang were already underway. She emphasised the need for an independent post-mortem and criticised the police for reportedly denying the family access to his cell, fuelling concerns of evidence tampering.

Veteran lawyer Paul Muite also weighed in, saying on X: “GoK thinks all it needs to do is spew the lie that you committed suicide... this regime has extrajudicially executed other Gen-Zs too.”

Social media users, including @xtiandela, have expressed collective grief and frustration, linking Ojwang’s death to a pattern of unexplained killings. “It’s TOO MUCH KILLING! STOP THE KILLINGS!” read one post.